United Way of the Coastal Empire proudly announces the Business Champions for the 2023 Campaign. These 12 volunteer leaders serve as community advocates, working with United Way staff to manage and present employee giving campaigns at key businesses to grow United Way’s fundraising efforts to improve lives in the four-county region.

Business Champions are selected by their top management to lead the company’s United Way Campaign and help increase participation and overall giving at key businesses. Cynthia Cradduck with Cecilia Russo Marketing is leading this year’s Business Champions program.

"I am honored to be the Chair of this year's United Way of the Coastal Empire Business Champions program,” said Cynthia Cradduck, Cecilia Russo Marketing. “This program is a vital part of United Way's mission to improve lives in our community. By bringing together business leaders from across the region, we can work together to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most."

The Business Champions Program is supported by local companies that designate executive-level employees to support United Way. These executives are responsible for the assigned employee-giving campaigns. Given their “regular” responsibilities at their companies, this commitment to the program is a significant investment in United Way.

“The Business Champions effort was created by Michael Solomon of Synovus Bank three years ago, and in that short time, it has proven to be very successful,” said Brynn Grant, President & CEO of United Way of the Coastal Empire. “We are thrilled to have the inimitable Cynthia Cradduck leading the team this year and grateful for each member.”

"We are off to a great start, and I am confident this year's Business Champions will be a force for good in our community,” says Cradduck. “We have a talented and dedicated group of individuals who are truly passionate about making a difference. I am excited to see what we can accomplish together."

2023 Business Champions

Cynthia Cradduck, Cecilia Russo Marketing (CHAIR)

Whitney Benberry, Senior Citizens, Inc. (VICE-CHAIR)

Joselyn Baker, Colonial Group, Inc.

Luke Boyd, BankSouth

Patrick Blume, Queensborough National Bank & Trust

Liz Ely, Savannah Economic Development Authority

Greg Finch, Bouhan Falligant

Mary Catherine Finnerty, Hussey Gay Bell

John Garceau, Thomas & Hutton

Emily Homes, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard

Cornelius Lloyd, Xcel Strategies

Eli Vandiver, Georgia Ports Authority